'Snow Family' stolen right out of yard in plain sight

Dear Editor:

As some say, "'tis the season" for giving. But does that mean it's also the "season for taking?"

Several residents here in the Historic District are once again falling victim to vandalism and thievery.

As tacky as some of the large blow-up style decorations are, some of them are just great as they appeal to the child in all of us.

A neighbor had one of their blow-ups stolen a week ago.

I HAD one too. Last night between 6:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. my 3-year-old Snow Family was stolen right out of my yard in plain sight.

Now, I'm asking myself, "Had I been presented an opportunity to give it away and bless someone with it who otherwise wouldn't have the means or money to purchase their own?"

I may never know because someone made the choice for me.

Is it a social commentary on the state of the neighborhood/community security?

Is it a commentary on the mentality and illness of the uneducated and less fortunate?

Or is it simply a commentary on the laziness of some not to work to pay for what they want to have and own?

Those of us who work hard to have what we do, create these displays on the holidays not just for ourselves but for others to enjoy. As an example of this season's giving, I received one of the most incredible blessings the other day when a "local leader and city father" stopped by on his way home to tell me how my Christmas decorations on my house each year make him remember his childhood, cause him to feel joy, and how much he appreciates my sharing this seasonal whimsy with the neighborhood.

I can't begin to explain how much this gesture meant to me and the fact that he drives by 3-4 times a week.

His blessing means more to me than just a compliment especially in the hardship of the economy.

I may not be able to give financial support to the city and the less fortunate but I can give creatively during these seasonal celebrations.

I try to bless with my "spiritual and divine gifts loaned to me by my source."

Having my work taken from me by someone who doesn't deserve the blessing violates the security of my home which was a blessing from my parents and grandparents. When they settled here, they didn't have to worry about this kind of behavior. I can remember Christmases 40-plus years ago when we didn't lock our homes and when another family was in trouble, we joyfully gave to lift them up to share the JOY. If this is the "season to give" then I joyfully "give my decoration to someone who obviously had to have it and needed it." Had they asked me, I might have even been able to give them something they could have really used; education included free of charge.

The Cherokee Historic District Neighborhood Watch is still active and will be addressing some of these kinds of situations again soon.

While it is still "more blessed to give than to receive" those who would "take" need to know that we are prepared to give more than blessings.

Merry Christmas and sincere blessings for all that is good and right in light and peace.

Christopher H. Cline

Gaffney, S.C.